There was a division
therefore again among the Jews for these sayings (John 10:19).
In Calvin’s commentary on John 10:19 he reflects on the
charge laid against him and other Reformed ministers of being “Schismastics”:
Thus, the wickedness of
many is still the reason why the Church is troubled by divisions, and why
contentions are kindled. Yet those who disturb the peace, throw the blame on
us, and call us Schismastics; for the principle charge which the Papists bring
against us is, that our doctrine has shaken the tranquility of the Church. Yet
the truth is, that, if they would yield submissively to Christ, and give their
support to the truth, all the commotions would be immediately allayed. But when
they utter murmurs and complaints against Christ, and will not allow us to be at
rest on any other condition than that the truth of God shall be extinguished,
and that Christ shall be banished from his kingdom, they have no right to
accuse us of the crime of schism; for it is on themselves, as every person
sees, that this crime ought to be charged. We ought to be deeply grieved that
the Church is torn by divisions arising among those who profess the same
religion; but it is better that there are some who separate themselves from the
wicked, to be united to Christ their Head, than that all should be of one mind
in despising God. Consequently, when schisms arise, we ought to inquire who
they are that revolt from God and from his pure doctrine.
JTR
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